The Tolland, Connecticut area combines forested terrain with water features at approximately 650 feet elevation, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer days average in the high 70s to low 80s. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with water systems typically winterized by mid-autumn.
What to Do
Kayaking and canoeing options: At Wilderness Lake Park, campers enjoy complimentary water equipment. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," reports Rob L. The lake provides a tranquil paddling environment suitable for beginners.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds offer this increasingly popular activity. Wilderness Lake Park features an expanding course. As one visitor noted, "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property."
Waterfront activities: West Thompson Lake Campground provides extensive paddling opportunities. "This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings," shares Cynthia K.
Fireside services: Many campgrounds offer wood delivery directly to sites. At Wilderness Lake, "They deliver wood to your site. It's a place to get away!" explains Anthony C. Most areas allow fires with purchased or gathered wood, though restrictions may apply during drought conditions.
What Campers Like
Private tent areas: Charlie Brown Campground receives praise for its secluded spaces. "We chose the best spot for our first camping trip with our new travel trailer. Everyone assisted us and taught us the world of camping," states Ron C. Many first-time campers appreciate the supportive atmosphere.
Late checkout options: Several campgrounds accommodate flexible departure times. As Johnny W. notes about Charlie Brown Campground, "Not far off of 395, so that's always nice. Had a beautiful river side site. Oversized and nicely unkept. Grey dump only due to river so no biggie."
Proximity to hiking trails: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. At George Washington State Campground, visitors enjoy various hiking options. "There's fishing and hiking right in the park," explains Nick S., who visits twice per season with family.
Lean-to structures: West Thompson Lake Campground offers elevated sleeping platforms. "Very convenient to have the elevated space to sleep and store items in. The sites were not very secluded from each other, but there were not a lot of other campers when we went so it wasn't a problem for us," mentions Jeremiah F.
What You Should Know
Cash payment requirements: Several campgrounds accept limited payment methods. "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," advises Hails L. about Wilderness Lake Park, which accommodates late arrivals with advance notice.
Seasonal camping restrictions: Most glamping sites in Tolland, Connecticut close between October and April. Campgrounds typically require 24-hour minimum stays on weekends and may have 3-day minimums during holidays.
Tent-specific limitations: Some "camping resorts" have shifted away from tent-only sites. According to Kerry G., "Odetah Camping Resort called us today 24 hours prior to our arrival - after 4 years of camping there - to cancel our site unless we rented an RV and didn't use tents."
Swimming restrictions: Not all lakes permit swimming. At Brialee Family Campground, campers have multiple water options. "Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs," notes Mallory P.
Tips for Camping with Families
Structured activities schedule: Brialee Family Campground organizes hourly programming. "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy," states Mallory P., who also mentions amenities like "a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs."
Campground entertainment: Many locations organize themed weekends. Laura D. praises her experience: "The activities were great and kept my grand children busy. Swimming and the lake were fun. I cannot say enough wonderful things."
Basketball courts: Multiple campgrounds maintain sports facilities. Cameron F. mentions that West Thompson Lake Campground has a "nice basketball court, decent bathrooms for a state campground," though notes "they close the gate to enter at 9pm."
Halloween camping: Several campgrounds host special October events. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating," shares Brian P. about Odetah Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Grey water disposal: Charlie Brown Campground allows partial hookups by rivers. "Grey dump only due to river so no biggie. Staff was friendly and there was some stuff to do. Crafts for kids a band a wagon ride. Good place overall and great price," notes Johnny W.
Propane availability: Most campgrounds sell propane on-site or within 5 miles. Wilderness Lake Park provides wood delivery but requires campers to bring or purchase propane elsewhere.
Site privacy considerations: Many RV sites offer minimal separation. Dana C. comments on Odetah Camping Resort: "The staff will deliver wood right to your site. The only con is the sites are not very private...at all."
WiFi reliability: Network coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. As Dave B. cautions about Brialee, "There was no WiFi service as advertised and cell service was poor. Sites are close together."
